I have ordered more chest X-rays in the last few weeks than ever before. Pertussis and pneumonia are definitely prevalent in Western Massachusetts. I can assure you the news accounts are accurate.
Pertussis, also known as whooping cough, is a very contagious bacterial infection. It starts like cold symptoms and then develops into the classic, persistent, whooping cough. The bacteria is called Bordetella pertussis and is only found in humans. The bacteria attach to the the tiny, hair-like extensions (cilia) that line the upper respiratory system. The bacteria releases toxins which damage the cilia and cause the airway to swell.
Outbreaks of pertussis were first recorded in the 16th century. The bacteria was first isolated in 1906. Until 1940 in the United States, when the vaccine for pertussis became available, it was one of the most common childhood diseases and a major cause of death in children. Incidence has decreased by 75% since vaccine availability. Globally, pertussis and death from pertussis continues in high numbers.
